relationship with Jesus

Mark 13:3-23 – Jesus Looks Out For Us

We now know how much Jesus will look out for us when troubles come. We’re given the privilege of hearing what Jesus was telling some of his closest followers. Jesus made it sound like these things were only going to happen during the disciples’ lifetimes, but the promise continues as we are facing the same opposition. There are so many gems in this reading.

Jesus speaks of the end times, as well as our times of persecution while we wait. You’ve probably heard people say “we’re in the end times” because of the earthquakes and wars going on around the globe. It’s not surprising, then, that we as Christ-followers are under attack for our faith in some parts of the world. Even churches and faith groups are under siege, as well as individuals standing for their religious rights. All have been mocked and scorned by society. It’s happening. Continue reading “Mark 13:3-23 – Jesus Looks Out For Us”

John 1:1-18 – The Eternal Word

Read John 1:1-18

Here’s an exercise to try. Reread this text, verses 1-5 and 14, but replace the word “Word” with “Jesus.” You now have an entirely different, richer picture of who Jesus really is. Jesus was very much part of creation, and all that exists can be eternally grateful. As the “Word,” Jesus represents all truth, including the Word of God.

What goes through your mind when you realize that Jesus is not only our Savior but our Creator? God wasn’t about to create something so precious only to see it destroyed by sin. God knew we would stumble and be lost without Him. How the heart of God must break when so many people disregard Jesus’ involvement in their lives! When is the last time you thanked God for creating you or something you encounter each day? Even as believers, we get a bit lax when it comes to our gratitude because we start to take God for granted. Continue reading “John 1:1-18 – The Eternal Word”

James 2:26 – Faith in Action

^“Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.” (James 2:26)

This is a great memory verse to remind us to be transparent in living out our faith. It’s not meant to say that what we do matters in terms of our salvation. To me, it is not contrary to what Paul taught about faith in Jesus but only complements it beautifully.

Context (James 2:14-26): The author, James, is believed to be the half-brother of Jesus and a leader in the early church. In James’ teaching, he shares how he believes that our good deeds result from our faith. Faith and works go together and can’t be separated. In this passage, James uses two examples, Abraham and Rahab, to show great faithfulness and the actions they took because of it. Continue reading “James 2:26 – Faith in Action”

Revelation 3:20 – A Relationship with Jesus

“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” Revelation 3:20

Those are Jesus’ words, speaking directly to our hearts. Jesus is asking permission to come in. He won’t ever barge in where he is not welcome. We’ve all known people in our lives who show up unannounced creating potentially awkward situations. Jesus will never do that.

Context: This is a great verse to memorize because you never know when you’ll need to assure someone that Jesus is patient and loving. When we commit verses to memory, it’s helpful to know the context of the verses so we don’t miss the “intended” meaning. In this case, Jesus was revealing to John a message to one of the seven churches of Revelation, Laodicea. Apparently, they were “lukewarm” in their faith, and Jesus wanted them to turn from their indifference. Does that context change how you view this text? Continue reading “Revelation 3:20 – A Relationship with Jesus”

Job 1:6-22 – Job’s First Test

Read Job 1:6-22

Before too much time passes, I wanted to pass on something I learned from my pastor husband, David, as I was preparing to start this reflection. An Old Testament scholar would know that the “Satan” we read about here must be taken into context. We bring a lot of “New Testament” knowledge about how evil is personified in Satan or the devil. People in Job’s time would not have that same knowledge. For them, Satan would be more of a prosecuting attorney or an accuser wanting to trip up or tempt one of God’s favorites.

Here, the accuser is pointing his finger at Job, the terrific guy who was notably God-fearing. God sure thought highly of Job as he told Satan, “He is the finest man in all the earth.” Don’t rush past that. God thought that about Job. Did Job know he pleased God that much? We are all God’s favorites, didn’t you know? Continue reading “Job 1:6-22 – Job’s First Test”